Hello Adventurers,

Steven & I are thrilled to extend an invitation to you for a once-in-a-lifetime journey along one of the most remote and iconic stock routes in the world - the Canning Stock Route in 2026.
This will be Stevens fifth expedition and Alison's fourth. 

Why Join Us?

Adventure of a Lifetime: Feel the excitement of navigating one of the world's longest and most secluded stock routes.
Spectacular Scenery: Witness stunning desert landscapes, unique flora and fauna, and historical sites.
Camaraderie: Connect with like-minded outdoor enthusiasts and create lifelong friendships & memories.
Self-Sufficiency: Develop skills & knowledges in remote travel, navigation, and bushfoods/craft.
 
About Us

 

Steven's childhood was spent in the Pilbara, where he relished adventurous 4WD excursions throughout the region. In contrast, Alison grew up in a wheatbelt farming community, cultivating a deep appreciation for nature and natural history from an early age.
Following their time in the Pilbara, the couple moved to the Goldfields, where they resided for a decade. Kalgoorlie became their base for exploration, enabling them to travel extensively and camp throughout the region, as well as in South Australia, the Northern Territory, and the deserts of Western Australia.

In the Goldfields, Steven's work involved wiring mining camps, operating gold mines, and maintaining processing and power plants. Currently, they reside on a rural property in the picturesque southwestern shire of Collie, where they continue to embrace their outdoor lifestyle.

Steven's background encompasses maintenance in the power and heavy industry, and he has owned and operated a truck, as well as run his own maintenance business. His diverse interests include motorcycle racing, farming, and general repairs and construction, making him adept at resolving various challenges.

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Alison's passion for nature, nurtured during her youth in the wheatbelt and the Fitzgerald area along the south coast, drives her business - Forest Explorers, where she leads wildflower, mural, heritage tours & trail transfers in Australia’s Southwest.
Steven never ventures anywhere without thoroughly researching the heritage of the area, while Alison brings a wealth of nature-based research, deepening their understanding of the flora, fauna, and ecosystems they encounter. Together, they create journeys rich in history and natural discovery.

Both Steven and Alison hold Senior First Aid certification and have completed training in various relevant fields over the years. They are also active members of the local Bush Fire Brigade, with Steven serving as Captain and Alison as the Community Preparedness Coordinator.

Expedition Details:

Twenty-Two days along the Canning Stock Route, embarking on a 4wd tag-along expedition (max 6 vehicles), navigating through the vast rugged Western Australian outback.

Depart Wiluna Caravan Park - Arrive Kimberley Hotel, Halls Creek
Mode of Travel: 4WD only (no trailers & no pets) 
Accommodation: Wiluna Caravan Park, Camping under the stars & The Kimberley Hotel
Cost: $5,500 per vehicle

 

This package includes all necessary permits, Pre departure kits, vehicle inspections and support. Evening BBQ & site at a Wiluna Caravan Park, entry to Discovery Centre. Accommodation, dinner & breakfast at the Kimberley Hotel. Damper Cook Off, Casserole nights, Quiz Nights, Star Gazing.4WD knowledge sharing, expertise, and access to intellectual property insights.

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What to Expect: 

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• Participating in daily 4WD driving challenges and off-road escapades.

• Endless opportunities for hiking, photography, swimming, exploration, and a mix of activities.

• Evenings spent around the campfire, sharing captivating stories.

• Expert guidance and support available every step of the way.  

• Q What age range typically joins these expeditions? Participants generally range from 40s to 75, though anyone physically capable and appropriately experienced is welcome. The common factor is a love of adventure, self-sufficiency, and respect for the outback.

• Can couples or friends share a vehicle? Absolutely! Most participants are couples sharing one vehicle. Friends can also share, though ensure compatibility for 22 days in close quarters!

• What's the group culture like? Expect a supportive, adventurous community. Participants help each other with daily activities, share stories around the campfire, and look out for one another. Respect, patience, and a sense of humor are essential for group cohesion over 22 days.

                                              

Preparation, Requirements

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• What preparation should I do before the trip? We provide a comprehensive pre-departure information pack covering vehicle preparation checklist, equipment requirements and what to expect. We also offer monthly pre-trip preparation consultation via phone, email, zoom, or in-person prior to departure.

• When will you send out the full itinerary? Itineraries will be provided once your deposit is paid.
  Please note that the itinerary is subject to change depending on track conditions, weather, vehicle issues, border restrictions etc. We have also factored in some spare days that can be used if necessary for contingencies.

• Can you recommend preparatory training? It not necessary as you'll learn on the pace off the 22-day tour. that's part of our tour experience and intellectual property sharing. We recommend basic vehicle maintenance knowledge on your behalf.

• Do I need special permits? The Canning Stock Route crosses several land types with varying permit requirements. We handle group permits where applicable and provide guidance on cultural heritage.

• What you'll need? A well-maintained 4WD vehicle with appropriate modifications and equipment, including, UHF radio, quality all terrain light truck tires, fuel capacity for 1100km of hard driving and a minimum 60L of water.  A detailed list of other recommended vehicle preparation will be provided.

• A sense of adventure and a positive attitude

• Camping gear and supplies for the journey.  (a detailed list will be provided)

• Willingness to work as a team and support fellow travellers

    FAQ 

• Preparation and Planning

• How long does it take? - Most sources indicate 10-21 days minimum, with 20-28 days being more realistic for a comfortable pace. Forest Explorers offers 22 days for comfort and exploring the diverse landscapes.

• When is the best time to go? - April to September (cooler months) is consistently recommended, with travel outside this period not advised due to extreme heat or wet conditions. Forest Explorers travels with our group of six vehicles in July, this is mid/season. We have experienced in the past that most traffic has been through by July.

• Do I need permits? - Yes, permits are required for most sections of the route through the Canning Stock Route Visitor Permit system. These are included in your tour cost.

• What permits are needed? - Different permits for different well sections and traditional landowners these funds go towards land management, native animal research and preservation, Introduced species control and prescribed burn management. More answers can be found on the permit websites.

• Vehicle & Equipment Questions:

• How much fuel do I need? - Fuel consumption estimated around 15-18L/100km. 1100km at heavy consumption. Fuel at Well 33 Kunawarritji. ¾ way heading north from Wiluna.

• How many spare tyres? - Minimum of two light truck spare tyres recommended, one can be a case.

• Can I tow a trailer/camper? - No sorry from Forest Explorers, it’s an extra set of wheels and axles to care for. Trailers where actually banned between Wiluna and Well 5 due to station road maintenance.

• What tyre pressure should I use? - Sources mention letting out 60/80% of air (around 20psi or below) to handle corrugations and comfortable dune crossings.

• Route Difficulty Questions:

• How many sand dunes are there? - Over 900 sand dunes.

• How difficult/challenging is it? – another reason we take 22 days to complete. You need to get you and your vehicle safety to the north. There are corrugations, dunes, rocks and more corrugations. These are all bearable with the right suspension and shorter days of travel. Our participants have told us it’s an average technical track, though 1850km.

• Should I travel alone? - No, two vehicles or convoy travel is strongly recommended. There are a few people that travel alone.

• What are the corrugations like? - Described as severe though once again short itinerary travel days and the scenery make it so bearable. – right suspension, we are very happy with https://dobinsons.com/

• Logistics Questions:

• Where can I get fuel? - Only at Kunawarritji  8km from Well 33 (about 1,000km from Wiluna

• Where can I get water? – Washing and shower water at most wells, though some of the northern wells have been burnt out. Carry 60l of fresh for drinking with top up at Kunawarritji  8km from Well 33.

• Is there mobile phone reception? - No mobile coverage along the route – Starlink or Sat phone.

• What vehicle damage should I expect? – You shouldn’t if your vehicle is well prepared and carry the least weight possible. Even down to dehydrated foods. Suspension needs to be in top order, consider upgrades or replacing shock absorbers even if the vehicle is a few years old. Thought the top damage could possibly be staked tyres, pack a plug kit. Shock absorbers, bushes, and various mountings commonly need replacement after the trip. Consider Bushwrapz to protect your vehicle paintwork.

• For ease of mind enjoy your Canning Stock Route Journey with us.

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​Can we hire a vehicle for the Canning Stock Route? Yes, for local to overseas enthusiasts we are able to offer 4WD rental from 

Gino Reservations Manager 

at Adventure West 4WD Rentals, Gino's an outback expert & when he’s not booking your dream WA trip, Gino is also out exploring the Aussie wilderness.

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Environmental & Cultural Considerations

How do you minimize environmental impact? We follow strict Leave No Trace principles: camp only in frequented areas, remove all rubbish, use existing tracks only, protect water sources, and minimize campfire impact. Respect for this fragile desert environment is mandatory.

Are there Aboriginal cultural sites along the route? Yes, the Canning Stock Route crosses many traditional Aboriginal lands with significant cultural heritage. We visit historic sites respectfully, follow all cultural protocols, and share the fascinating Indigenous, Afghan Cameleers and Droving history of the route.

Can we collect firewood? Firewood collection is extremely limited in the desert environment. We have no large fires at night. Any wood collection must follow environmental guidelines provided in your pre-trip briefing.

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If you are as excited about this 4wd expedition as we are and ready to take on the challenge, please contact us to express your interest.

Kind Regards

Steven & Alison Melvin

Ph Alison 0427 981 187 0r Ph Steven 0447 107 951

Collie 6225, WA.

www.forestexplorers.com.au 

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